The rapid product of grape processing at a vineyard is a combination of juice, skins, seeds, and stems. This combination, sometimes called should, is the muse upon which winemaking builds. Its composition the stability of sugars, acids, tannins, and fragrant compounds is instantly influenced by grape varietal, winery practices, and the particular choices made throughout harvest and crushing.
This preliminary stage profoundly impacts the ultimate wine’s high quality and character. Components such because the diploma of ripeness, the gentleness of the crushing course of, and the presence or absence of stems all contribute to the should’s chemical make-up. Traditionally, the crushing course of relied on guide labor, typically by foot treading. Trendy methods make use of mechanical crushers and presses, permitting for higher management over the extraction course of and minimizing potential oxidation. This exact management permits winemakers to fine-tune the traits of the should, tailoring it to particular wine kinds and desired outcomes.
